Meta description (150 characters): Learn the 4 key questions every patient should ask to know when it’s time to find a new doctor and get the care you deserve.
Let’s be honest—some doctors just aren’t good at their jobs. Just like a bad haircut or a disappointing restaurant, sometimes you walk away from a medical appointment frustrated and unsatisfied. The truth is that medicine is a profession like any other: there are excellent providers, and there are those you should avoid.
I’m Dr. Travis Owens, a sports medicine doctor and CrossFit coach. After more than 12 years in practice, 10,000+ patient cases, and a 90%+ resolution rate in under four visits, I’ve seen firsthand the difference between good doctors, great doctors, and the best doctors.
Good doctors know what they can help.
Great doctors know what they cannot help.
The best doctors can recognize the difference and are honest with patients right away.
Healthcare is called “practice” for a reason. Every case adds to a provider’s experience. The best doctors don’t claim to have all the answers but know when to research, refer, or admit a limitation.
A frustrating medical experience doesn’t always come down to the individual doctor. Insurance companies play a massive role:
Year after year, reimbursements shrink.
Doctors respond by cramming more patients into the schedule.
Patients wait for an hour or more, only to get five minutes of facetime.
This “insurance game” lowers care quality for everyone. Some providers are moving toward concierge models—smaller patient panels, membership fees, and better access—so they can focus on quality instead of volume.
When you visit a doctor, you really only care about four things:
Do you know what’s wrong with me?
Can you fix it?
How long will it take?
How much will it cost?
If your provider can’t answer these clearly, you’re likely to leave frustrated. That doesn’t automatically mean they’re a “bad” doctor—sometimes the issue is outside their scope. But the best providers will guide you to the right specialist quickly and transparently.
If you decide it’s time to move on, here are practical steps:
Check your insurance directory. Start with in-network providers, then research names and reviews online.
Ask friends and family. Trusted recommendations go a long way.
Use local groups and forums. Community feedback can help confirm or warn against a provider.
Reverse search. Find top-rated doctors in your area, then check if they’re covered by your insurance.
Remember: you are never handcuffed to your current provider. You have the right to choose someone who fits your needs.
You deserve clear answers and quality care. If your doctor can’t tell you what’s wrong, how to fix it, how long it will take, and what it will cost, it may be time to fire your doctor and find a new one.
Call to Action:
If you’re struggling to find a good provider in your area, feel free to reach out to me. I’m happy to help connect you with someone who can deliver the care you need.